Since its debut in 2007, the Assassin's Creed series has taken players on a thrilling journey through history, from the bustling streets of Renaissance Italy to the ancient landscapes of Greece. Ubisoft's commitment to exploring diverse historical settings has set the series apart, offering a unique blend of action, adventure, and education. While the core mechanics of Assassin's Creed have remained consistent across its 14 mainline entries, the franchise has evolved significantly, introducing new elements in player progression and expansive worlds.
Determining the best Assassin's Creed games is no easy task, but after careful consideration, we've compiled a list of the top 10 mainline entries that stand out for their innovation, storytelling, and immersive experiences.
The 10 Best Assassin's Creed Games
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Playing the latest game in the series? Check out our Assassin's Creed Shadows guide.
10. Assassin's Creed: Revelations
Assassin’s Creed: Revelations masterfully concludes the stories of Altair Ibn-La-Ahad and Ezio Auditore. Despite some less memorable additions like the Den Defense mode, the game offers a thrilling and memorable send-off. From ziplining through Constantinople to interacting with Leonardo Da Vinci, Revelations is packed with fascinating adventures. It serves as both a celebration of the series' early days and a glimpse into its future, allowing players to bid farewell to two iconic characters after their journeys of growth and adventure.
9. Assassin's Creed Syndicate
Assassin's Creed Syndicate transports players to 19th Century Victorian London, a setting that vividly captures the era's industrialization. The game's memorable moments include sneaking through factories, racing horse-drawn carriages, and confronting Jack the Ripper. The unique score by Journey composer Austin Wintory, featuring distinct soundtracks for protagonists Jacob and Evie Fry, enhances the game's immersive atmosphere. Additionally, the effective use of a cane as a weapon adds a distinctive touch to the gameplay.
8. Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Assassin's Creed Valhalla introduces substantial changes to the series, including weightier combat and a shift from traditional side quests to world events, enhancing exploration and discovery. While Eivor may not be the most beloved protagonist, their story seamlessly blends historical fantasy with Norse mythology. The game's expansive world and the mythology-focused expansion offer a rich experience that rivals even the likes of God of War.
7. Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood
Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood continues Ezio Auditore da Firenze's saga, solidifying his status as a fan-favorite. Set in an expanded Rome, the game builds on the mechanics introduced in Assassin's Creed 2, including swimming, property management, and the use of firearms and recruitable allies. The updated combat system allows players to embrace a more aggressive assassin role. Additionally, Brotherhood introduced multiplayer, offering a fresh perspective by allowing players to step into the shoes of the Templars.
6. Assassin's Creed Origins
Assassin's Creed Origins marks a pivotal shift in the series, transforming it into a full-fledged open-world RPG. Set in ancient Egypt, the game follows Bayek and Aya on a quest for justice that leads to the founding of the Assassin's Brotherhood. The expansive world, compelling narrative, and the introduction of loot-based progression and action RPG combat revitalized the series, offering a fresh and engaging experience.
5. Assassin's Creed Unity
Assassin's Creed Unity, the first game exclusively released on next-gen consoles, showcases a stunning recreation of Paris. Despite a rocky launch plagued by bugs and glitches, subsequent patches have transformed it into a fan favorite. The game's enhanced movement system offers the most fluid parkour in the series, and its assassination missions are among the best, providing multiple infiltration options. The detailed depiction of Notre Dame alone makes Unity a must-play.
4. Assassin's Creed Shadows
Developer: Ubisoft Quebec | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: March 20, 2025 | Review: Read IGN's Assassin's Creed Shadows review
Set in the long-requested Feudal Japan, Assassin's Creed Shadows meets the high expectations set by fans. The game refocuses on stealth and assassination, offering a more restrained open world and RPG elements compared to its predecessors. With two playable protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, players can experience the game from different perspectives. Naoe's stealth-focused toolkit and Yasuke's samurai combat style provide a dynamic gameplay experience, set against the backdrop of a visually stunning world that changes with the seasons.
3. Assassin's Creed Odyssey
Assassin's Creed Odyssey expands on the RPG elements introduced in Origins, set against the backdrop of Ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War. The game's vast world, stunning vistas, and engaging naval warfare create an immersive experience. The notoriety system and nation struggle mechanics add tension and depth, while the charismatic protagonist and eccentric side quests keep players engaged. Even after completing the main story, there's much to explore and discover in Odyssey's rich world.
2. Assassin's Creed 2
Assassin's Creed 2 not only proved the series' potential but also set a new standard for video game sequels. The game introduced dynamic assassination missions, improved combat and mobility, and new features like catacomb missions and an upgradeable villa. Set during the Italian Renaissance, it introduced the iconic protagonist Ezio Auditore da Firenze and seamlessly connected the historical narrative with the present-day story. The unforgettable ending, featuring a confrontation with the Pope and a supernatural twist, solidified Assassin's Creed 2 as a landmark entry in the series.
1. Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag
Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag introduces a refreshing twist by focusing on a pirate protagonist, Edward Kenway, who is an assassin second. The Caribbean setting serves as a vibrant sandbox, filled with islands to explore and treasures to uncover. The game's naval combat, built upon the foundation laid by Assassin's Creed 3, becomes the highlight, offering thrilling ship battles and seamless transitions between land and sea. Black Flag not only stands out as one of the best Assassin's Creed games but also as one of the greatest pirate games ever made.
Every Assassin's Creed Game Tier List
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These are our top Assassin’s Creed games. Do you agree with the ranking? Is there another entry you think should have made the list? Share your favorite Assassin’s Creed game in the comments.
Upcoming Assassin's Creed Games
Looking ahead, several exciting Assassin's Creed titles are on the horizon. Assassin's Creed Shadows, set in Feudal Japan, has just been released, allowing players to explore the paths of both a shinobi and a samurai. Assassin's Creed Jade, set in ancient China, is in development for mobile devices, though a release date has yet to be confirmed. Additionally, Assassin's Creed: Codename Hexe promises a mysterious and occult-themed adventure, bringing fresh ideas to the series.
Assassin's Creed: The Complete Playlist
From the original 2007 title to the upcoming console, PC, mobile, and VR projects, here is the entire Assassin's Creed series in one comprehensive list. Log in to track which ones you've played.
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